How to Be a Wag: Unveiling the Controversial Tale of Layla Machado Garry and UFC Fighter Ian Garry

By Ali Hammad December 13, 2023 16:10

In the world of professional sports, the lives of athletes and their partners often captivate the public's imagination. One such story that has recently taken center stage is the book "How to Be a Wag" by Layla Anne-Lee, now known as Layla Machado Garry, the wife of UFC Fighter Ian Machado Garry. As the title suggests, the book offers insights into the life of a WAG (Wives and Girlfriends) of a professional athlete. However, this book has found itself entangled in a controversy involving Sean Stickland and Ian Machado Garry, leading up to Ian's fight against Vincente Luque at UFC 296.

Exploring the Book: "How to Be a Wag"

"How to Be a Wag" provides a unique perspective into the glamorous yet challenging world of being the spouse of a professional athlete. Layla Anne-Lee, now Layla Machado Garry, shares her personal journey, offering advice and guidance for those aspiring to be WAGs. The book delves into various aspects, including managing public attention, dealing with media scrutiny, maintaining personal identity, and supporting an athlete's career.

Controversy Unveiled:

The controversy surrounding the book began when Sean Stickland, a renowned sports journalist, publicly criticized "How to Be a Wag." Stickland argued that the book perpetuates gender stereotypes and promotes the objectification of women, reducing them to mere accessories in the lives of athletes. He accused Layla Machado Garry of reinforcing outdated ideals and undermining the progress made towards gender equality.

Ian Machado Garry's Involvement:

The controversy escalated further when Stickland's comments caught the attention of Ian Machado Garry, Layla's husband and a prominent UFC fighter. Machado Garry defended his wife's work, asserting that the book aimed to shed light on the unique challenges faced by WAGs, rather than objectify or belittle them. He argued that the book aimed to empower women by sharing personal experiences and offering guidance for those navigating the complexities of this lifestyle.

The Clash of Opinions:

The clash between Stickland and Machado Garry ignited a heated debate within the sports community. Supporters of Layla Machado Garry praised her for providing insights into a lesser-known aspect of the sports world and appreciated her efforts to empower WAGs. They believed that her intentions were noble and that the controversy was blown out of proportion.

On the other hand, critics argued that the book reinforces stereotypes and fails to challenge the societal norms that perpetuate the objectification of women. They emphasized the need for a more progressive approach in discussing the lives of WAGs, one that emphasizes their individuality, achievements, and personal growth beyond their partner's success.

The Impact on UFC 296:

The controversy surrounding "How to Be a Wag" reached its peak as Ian Machado Garry prepared to face Vincente Luque at UFC 296. The media frenzy surrounding the book and the clash of opinions generated significant attention for the fight. The controversy not only added an extra layer of anticipation but also increased the visibility of the book, drawing both praise and criticism from fans and pundits alike.

The book "How to Be a Wag" by Layla Machado Garry provides a thought-provoking insight into the world of WAGs and the challenges they face. While the controversy surrounding the book has sparked a passionate debate, it has also shed light on the importance of promoting gender equality within the sports industry. Regardless of one's opinion, it is undeniable that "How to Be a Wag" has sparked conversations and raised awareness about the complexities of being the spouse of a professional athlete.